Author Archives: Ken

Did you know that the Latino population in Illinois rose by a half-million in the past decade, but only about 30,000 of those new Latinos were Chicagoans? It all reflects the radical shifts in our population, including the more than … Continue reading →

A mid-summer slower week in the news.  Who knew that some union city workers get paid time-and-a-half for “prepping their vehicles” before beginning the day’s work? Mayor Emanuel says quit those and other expensive practices and maybe we can eliminate … Continue reading →

“Shall we talk about the Blago verdict?” the host implores at the show’s open. “No”, snaps the panel. Cara Jepsen (Illinois Entertainer), Justin Kaufman (WBEZ) and Neil Tesser (CNC) have come to the Newsroom to talk media, and they don’t disappoint. … Continue reading →

We discuss the real, underlying causes of the “massing” crimes in touristy areas on this week’s show. Salim Muwakkil (In These Times, WVON) says there’s an air of desperation in some impoverished communities, and changes in the gang structures have … Continue reading →

This week in The Newsroom – Tough guy in a suit. Rahm Emanuel implies that he could treat unions like Scott Walker does, but he doesn’t want to. He’s kinder and gentler. But 48 hours after his state legislation limited … Continue reading →

We called in two veteran Chicago observer/activists for today’s show for a “big-picture” discussion about our new mayor, the new redistricting maps, and just what it is we actually expect our governments to do and be. Cindi Canary is immediate … Continue reading →

Our thanks to Alden Loury of the Chicago Reporter for filling in this week as host. Ken’s jury trial is wrapping up, and he’ll be back next week. We expand our horizons well beyond Chicago this week – all the … Continue reading →

No show this week. Ken was called to jury duty, and we had to cancel the show at the last minute.

Two of Chicago’s most seasoned political observers visit the Newsroom this week.  It’s an all-Rahm Emanuel show, as Bruce DuMont (Beyond the Beltway, Museum of Broadcast Communications) and Ben Joravsky (Chicago Reader) share their reactions to the inaugural ceremony, the … Continue reading →